The Virgin Islands Center for
Autonomous Research (VICAR)
We’re building a new era of ecological marine science in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Our mission is to accelerate research and innovation in ecological monitoring and restoration by establishing VICAR, advancing autonomous technologies, and developing a place-based STEM workforce in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Our vision is to develop the Virgin Islands Center for Autonomous Research (VICAR) to integrate robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and informatics to speed marine and environmental science in an era of rapid change and build long-term workforce and research capacity in the USVI.
Leadership Team
Led by Drs. Tyler Smith and Lauren Olinger, this initiative will use underwater robots, 3D imaging, and Artificial Intelligence to monitor reefs and ocean life more efficiently.
“UVI has spent decades building its marine research infrastructure, with the dream of making the U.S. Virgin Islands a global leader in the study of tropical marine systems. This U.S. National Science Foundation award and the creation of VICAR is the next critical step in making this a reality. Our education and workforce development components also ensure that the impacts will radiate outward in the community and create a lasting legacy, with intellectual and economic benefits for years to come,” says Smith.
Community Impacts
VICAR engages Virgin Islands youth through hands-on programs in marine science, robotics, and environmental monitoring, reflecting its strong commitment to student learning and opportunity. UVI students gain real-world experience through paid internships, research roles, and interdisciplinary courses tied to local environmental challenges.
